Ally Thompson’s unusual teaching style has seen great results.
Thompson, a Health and Human Performance instructor, graduated from Central Oregon Community College with an associates degree and is now a certified personal trainer through American College of Sports Medicine and founded her own business called BodyRock personal fitness in 2008.
“Having the credentials and degree gave me confidence,” Thompson said.
For six years, Thompson has taught an average of four classes each semester at COCC.
“The students that prove me wrong are the reason that I love my job. Those are the people that blow my mind, they inspire me to push myself harder,” Thompson said.
Thompson is also currently training with her fiance for the GORUCK on Oct. 24 in Las Vegas.
“I believe that you have to surround yourself with people who share your interest and priorities and live the life you want to live,” Thompson said.
In high school, Thompson was a runner and considered a career in the Military but due to reconstructive surgery on her right ankle was medically disqualified.
One of Thompson clients, Michelle Riley, has arthritis and has lost 80 pounds since she began one-on-one training with Thompson.
“Even though the arthritis makes everything painful, [Thompson] has found ways for me to get in shape and not be in pain” Riley said.
Both in her teaching and personal life, Thompson lives by the motto: “If you want it bad enough you’ll make it happen, if you don’t you’ll find excuses. Don’t complain about the results you didn’t get for the work you didn’t do.”

Diantha Kaufman | The Broadside
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